Animal shelter closes due to Parvo

SUFFOLK, Va. - WAVY.com has learned the Suffolk animal shelter has closed due to an outbreak of Parvo.

WAVY.com called the shelter directly and was told the shelter will remain closed until Monday, July 6.

City spokesperson Debbie George tells WAVY.com, shelter personnel were advised that an animal that had been adopted last week became ill.  Tests revealed the puppy suffered from parvovirus.  On Saturday, several dogs, including three litters of puppies became ill, George said.   Test results showed they also had parvo.

According to George, a total of 12 dogs were euthanized due to the disease.

WAVY.com has also learned a second city shelter in Hampton Roads is currently dealing with an outbreak of parvo.

"There was actually another shelter that when we contacted them, they advised us they had a similar situation so they would not be able to help us with any of our animals," said George.

George would not reveal which other city is dealing with the virus.

WAVY.com has made numerous phone calls to other local cities and so far none has disclosed any cases of parvo.

Canine parvovirus is a contagious virus which mainly affects dogs. The disease is highly contagious and can be spread from dog to dog through either direct or indirect contact with feces or vomit. Puppies are especially vulnerable.

According to the city, the animal shelter is taking an "active and aggressive role in addressing the issue since the discovery of the disease." The shelter is actively working to clean the shelter and combat further spread of the disease.

A vet from the state veterinary office visited the Suffolk shelter Friday afternoon, according to George.  The vet made suggestions on ways to further improve the shelter's cleaning regimen in hopes of preventing any further outbreaks.